INSTANT HISTORY: THE WEEK.

A treasured teammate leaves field for last time

August 05, 2001|By This page is compiled by Theresa Walla, deputy Perspective editor.

There was nothing but praise for Minnesota Vikings offensive tackle Korey Stringer after the 27-year-old Ohioan succumbed to heat stroke Wednesday. A coach, Mike Tice, said he only wished Stringer hadn't been such a hard worker.

Stringer, a Pro Bowl player also respected for his commitment to charity, died after practicing hard wearing full pads in brutally hot weather. One day earlier, he had been taken off the field to rest.

Tice said Stringer seemed embarrassed by the dismissal and was not flattered by a newspaper photograph, published Tuesday, that showed his exhaustion.

"He had tremendous pride. . . . He was out to prove to people that he was a leader."

After a day off, the Vikings were back on the field, praying and crying but getting back to business. After one tremendous catch in double coverage, wide receiver Cris Carter threw a big smile to the crowd of about 1,000 fans, who cheered him on.